Warner, de Kock charged by ICC
PORTELIZABETH: Australia’s David Warner and South Africa’s Quinton de Kock were both charged by the ICC for their postmatch confrontation in Durban, according a report in ESPNcricinfo.com. Both the players were charged for “conduct that brings the game into disrepute”.
While de Kock has a Level 1 charge against him, Warner faces a serious level 2 charge, according to the report. It means that the Australian opener could be banned for one Test if found guilty. The penalty for De Kock, can only be a fine. The two teams have to respond to the charge by Wednesday.
COACH BACKS WARNER
Before the announcement, Australia coach Darren Lehmann said he expects the coaches and captains to “chat” before the second Test starting in Port Elizabeth on Friday.
In a video posted on Cricket Australia’s website, Lehmann said he continued to back Warner as the team’s vice-captain as the Australians hunt a 2-0 series lead.
Asked whether there would be talks between the two sides in a bid to reduce hostilities, Lehmann said: “I’m sure the coaches will chat and the captains will chat and we’ll get away to play the game.”
With both sides blaming the other for sparking the incident by making personal insults, Lehmann said: “Everyone has their own opinion.”
He expected the remaining three Tests to be highly competitive. “Both sides are going to push the boundaries. That’s part and parcel of the game. It’s a bloody tough game out there.”
Lehmann said the key was to avoid personal insults. “We’ve got to make sure we don’t cross the line,” he said.